Celebrated on 06/27/2026
National PTSD Awareness Day was first recognized on June 27, 2010, thanks to the efforts of Senator Kent Conrad, who introduced the resolution after learning about the high rates of PTSD among veterans. The date was chosen to honor the birthday of Staff Sergeant Joe Biel, a North Dakota National Guard soldier who died by suicide after struggling with PTSD.
National PTSD Awareness Day was established by the United States Senate in 2010, following the introduction of Senate Resolution 541 by Senator Kent Conrad of North Dakota. The resolution was inspired by the story of Staff Sergeant Joe Biel, a North Dakota National Guard soldier who took his own life after returning from Iraq with severe PTSD. Senator Conrad, a close family friend, worked to designate June 27—Biel's birthday—as a day to raise awareness about PTSD and reduce the stigma surrounding it. The resolution passed unanimously, and the day was officially recognized.
Initially focused on military veterans, National PTSD Awareness Day has grown to encompass all individuals affected by PTSD, including survivors of sexual assault, natural disasters, and other traumatic events. The day is now part of PTSD Awareness Month, which is recognized throughout June. Organizations like the National Center for PTSD, the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs host events, webinars, and social media campaigns to educate the public. Activities include wearing teal (the official color of PTSD awareness), sharing resources, and encouraging those affected to seek help.
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